# CIS Ubuntu 14.04 LTS - 3.7 Ensure wireless interfaces are disabled

> Verify that wireless interfaces are disabled to reduce the attack surface

- Skill: `cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu-14-04-lts-3-7-ensure-wireless-interfaces-are-disa` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu-14-04-lts-3-7-ensure-wireless-interfaces-are-disa`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu-14-04-lts-3-7-ensure-wireless-interfaces-are-disa/raw
- Safety review: PASS (external: skill-scanner PASS, skillspector PASS)
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: cyberstrikeus (https://skillmd.com/u/cyberstrikeus)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu-14-04-lts-3-7-ensure-wireless-interfaces-are-disa

---


# 3.7 Ensure wireless interfaces are disabled (Not Scored)

## Profile Applicability

- Level 1 - Server
- Level 2 - Workstation

## Description

Wireless networking is used when wired networks are unavailable. Ubuntu contains a wireless tool kit to allow system administrators to configure and use wireless networks.

## Rationale

If wireless is not to be used, wireless devices can be disabled to reduce the potential attack surface.

## Audit Procedure

Run the following command to determine wireless interfaces on the system:

```bash
iwconfig
```

Run the following command and verify wireless interfaces are active:

```bash
ip link show up
```

## Expected Result

No wireless interfaces should be active (UP state).

## Remediation

Run the following command to disable any wireless interfaces:

```bash
ip link set <interface> down
```

Disable any wireless interfaces in your network configuration.

## Default Value

Wireless interfaces are enabled if hardware is present. Note: Many if not all laptop workstations and some desktop workstations will connect via wireless requiring these interfaces be enabled.

## References

- CIS Controls: 15.4 - Configure Only Authorized Wireless Access On Client Machines

## Profile

- Level 1 - Server
- Level 2 - Workstation